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Greenpeace activists fined for Calgary Tower mischief

CALGARY - Seven Greenpeace activists have been fined for the mischief they caused when they rappelled from the top of a tourist attraction and hung a banner criticizing the oil industry.

The aerial acrobatics last August at the Calgary Tower began when the protesters draped a banner that said "Separate Oil And State" from the bulbous observation deck. Police cordoned off several blocks around the downtown site.

The protest came to an end about two hours later when the last climber clambered back to the top of the 200-metre tower and was taken into custody.

Judge Allan Fradsham on Friday fined each of the protesters $2,300.

"I am completely satisfied the defendants knew what they were doing was a violation of the law and they were of the view that the making of their political statement was more important to them than the consequences," said Fradsham in a written ruling.

"The defendants made a conscious decision to violate the law knowing that breaking the law carries with it consequences."

He rejected a call from the defence for an absolute discharge. That means the protesters will have criminal records.

"Clearly this is a case where they wanted to get out their message, which arguably they did, but it did place their safety at risk, and also the safety of the police and firefighter authorities that had to deal with this stunt."

Greenpeace officials called the fine unfair.

"We're definitely disappointed that the court would prosecute individuals that are courageous enough to stand up to this government, that are courageous enough to stand up to these tarsands giants that are actively destroying our environment," said Mike Hudema, who oversees the organization's climate and energy campaigns.

"I think it's important to remember that this was a peaceful activity."

Photos

(Larry MacDougal/THE CANADIAN PRESS)

Greenpeace activists pose for a group photo outside the Calgary Courts Centre in downtown Calgary on Friday, Aug. 5, 2011 after seven of the group were sentenced for an August 2010 protest stunt on the Calgary Tower. (Larry MacDougal / THE CANADIAN PRESS)